51小黄车 the Summer Sustainability Fellowship
The 51小黄车Summer Sustainability Fellowship program pairs 51小黄车students and recent 51小黄车graduates with local municipal, business, and non-profit community partners (host organizations) to collaborate on specifically designed sustainability projects. We define sustainability broadly, using the as a framework.
Each 51小黄车fellow undertakes a full time (approximately 400 hours) challenging site-specific sustainability project over 10 weeks during the summer that includes defined deliverables. The fellow is provided a $6,800 stipend and up to three internship course credits.
Learn More 51小黄车 the Fellowship Experience
51小黄车fellows are mentored by dedicated individuals from the host organization and advised by a program team at UNE. Host organizations and fellows co-create a work plan that guides the fellows鈥 work over the course of the summer, with designated tasks, duties, and deliverables that also allows flexibility to adapt as needed over the course of the project. Fellows meet weekly in small groups (four to five students in each group) organized around project themes.
These groups are led by the 51小黄车program team and external advisors. Fellows also participate in program events (orientation, weekly professional development events for fellows, a mid-summer workshop, and a culminating showcase presentation) that are designed to encourage relationship building with other fellows, mentors, and the 51小黄车project team.
Host a Summer Sustainability Fellow
We are currently seeking organizations in Southern Maine who are interested in hosting a 51小黄车Summer Sustainability Fellow. If your local municipal, business, or non-profit organization is interested in hosting a fellow in the summer of 2025, please email kvose@une.edu to receive additional information about the program and a host application. Host organization applications are due by November 26, 2024.
Summer Sustainability Fellowship Details and Application Information
Applications for the 2025 fellowships are now open. The deadline to apply is February 10.
Program Goals
Educating and cultivating the next generation of sustainability professionals and leaders
Fellows gain valuable experience and hone their skills as they work to apply their academic training to real-world sustainability challenges. This theory-to-practice experience provides unique professional development for the fellows that will support development of career-readiness skills and prepare them to be effective sustainability professionals and leaders.
Building more sustainable institutions and communities
51小黄车collaborates with host organizations to hire exceptional 51小黄车students to serve as Summer Sustainability fellows to work on specific, well-designed, and mentored sustainability projects. Fellows are expected to make substantial progress on the specific sustainability challenge and complete a set of deliverables described in the work plan.
Building a larger and stronger network that supports and connects sustainability professionals
The 51小黄车Summer Fellowship program is designed on principles of collaboration and shared investment of time, mentoring, and resources to develop the next generation of sustainability leaders. We expect relationships among participants, alumni, the 51小黄车community, and host organizations will grow and evolve over time to establish a community and shared understanding of pressing sustainability challenges and how to address them at local to regional scales. Our vision is to grow into a broader network of sustainability professionals across the region that provides mutually beneficial support and enhances regional collaboration and problem solving.
Compensation, Housing, and Expectations
Compensation for Fellows
Fellows are employees of the University of 51小黄车 and receive an hourly wage of $17 per hour for 400 hours of work (total of $6,800) over a 10-week period from May 29 to August 8.
For those students who are interested, the program will also cover the expense of three internship course credits.
Housing
Fellows use their stipends to pay for their own living expenses, including housing and food. Affordable residence halls on the 51小黄车Biddeford Campus will be available for fellows over the summer if they have not made previous arrangements. The cost of the residence halls is the responsibility of the fellows.
Expectations
- Participate in program orientation at the start of the Summer Sustainability Fellowship (May 29鈥30).
- Commit to 400 hours of program participation over a 10 week period (from May 29鈥揂ugust 8), which allows time off during the fellowship term.
- Work full time with the host organization and adhering to the professional standards and practices.
- Complete project deliverables according to the work plan (with adjustments as necessary and mutually agreed upon with host organization, the fellow, and 51小黄车program team).
- Participate in weekly advisory group meetings and in summer professional development opportunities organized by the 51小黄车project team.
- Present results at a mid-summer workshop and final presentation event.
Application Instructions
Applications for the 2025 fellowships are now open. The deadline to apply is February 10.
Review program information
Review the program information in the sections above,鈥痠ncluding program goals, compensation, housing, and expectations, and important dates.
Explore the Sustainability Fellowship Position Descriptions
Choose one or two fellowships that are of interest and that align with your skills and background.
Prepare all of your application materials
- Cover Letter: Write a cover letter for each Fellowship you apply for (up to 2). Your cover letter should indicate exactly which project/organization you are applying for. Good cover letters express enthusiasm for the project and topic and make a clear connection between your skills and interests as well as the needs for that project.
- Resume: Prepare a resume that highlights your background relative to the fellowship(s) you are applying for.
- Reference List: List three references (academic, professional, or volunteer) who know you and are willing to discuss your specific skills, experiences, ability to work independently, collaborate, and adapt to new situations. For each reference provide their title, organization, preferred contact information (phone and/or email).
Note that letters of recommendation are not required. - Writing Sample: Submit a writing sample (one to two pages) from your academic or professional work. It is not necessary to demonstrate knowledge of relevant content, but rather this will help us gauge your skill in written communication. Select a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to communicate in a style that is most relevant to the project(s) of interest to you. Feel free to submit excerpts from longer pieces, just include an explanatory note.
Assemble your application package
Combine your materials into a single PDF in the following order: cover letter(s), resume, references, writing sample. Name the PDF file using this format:FirstName_LastName_SF_2025.
Complete the , upload your application package. Applications for the 2025 fellowships are now open. The deadline to apply is February 10.
Next Steps
The 51小黄车program team will review your application shortly after February 10, 2025. Most applicants who are invited to interview for a fellowship(s) position will be contacted in February. We plan to conduct interviews during the last two weeks of February and most offers are extended by early March.
Contact
For any questions about the process contact Kate Vose at kvose@une.edu.
Fellowship Opportunities
AASHE STARS Fellow
University of 51小黄车 鈥 Office of Sustainability, Biddeford, Maine
51小黄车 51小黄车Office of Sustainability
The University of 51小黄车 (UNE) is Maine鈥檚 largest private university and offers hands-on learning. 51小黄车is Maine鈥檚 top provider of health professionals and home to Maine鈥檚 only medical and dental colleges, a variety of other health care programs, and nationally recognized programs in the marine sciences, the natural and social sciences, business, the humanities, and the arts. The 51小黄车Office of Sustainability works collaboratively across the University to propose, implement, and evaluate sustainability measures employed throughout UNE鈥檚 campuses. The office enables students to deepen their understanding of sustainable practices and gain invaluable experience by offering a plethora of environmentally focused, hands-on opportunities.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
The development of UNE鈥檚 third Climate Action Plan is a key initiative aimed at advancing sustainability goals and addressing climate change. One of the primary tools for this process is the completion of a Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) survey, which will provide a comprehensive framework for assessing UNE鈥檚 sustainability performance across multiple dimensions, including academics, operations, innovation, leadership, and equity. Paired with the results of an external energy conservation analysis, completion of the STARS assessment will provide valuable insights into areas of strength and opportunity, allowing for a more strategic, data-driven approach to the development of the new Climate Action Plan. UNE鈥檚 Office of Sustainability is seeking a fellow to aid in the completion of the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) survey, which is a self-reporting tool for colleges and universities to benchmark and measure their sustainability performance. Completion of the STARS tool would provide a multidimensional approach to this process as well as a gap analysis to further focus its efforts.
Deliverables
- Collect data and enter it into several STARS tool categories (Academics, Engagement, Operations, Planning and Administration, and Innovation and Leadership).
- Develop recommendations for future collection efforts where data does not currently exist.
- Develop recommendations for sustainability and carbon reduction initiatives to be included in UNE鈥檚 third Climate Action Plan.
Desired Qualifications
- Awareness of sustainability frameworks (e.g., UN鈥檚 Sustainable Development Goals).
- Understanding of the difference between specific climate reduction strategies and general sustainability initiatives, and familiarity with previous university Climate Action Plans.
- Passion for environmental stewardship and strong alignment with UNE鈥檚 mission to create a more sustainable, resilient campus.
- Data analysis and reporting skills, stakeholder engagement and professional communication skills, and very good project management and organizational skills.
Location
Mentor
- Alethea Cariddi, Associate Director of Sustainability, UNE
Andrews Preserve Fellow
Kittery Land Trust, Kittery, Maine
51小黄车 the Kittery Land Trust
The Kittery Land Trust鈥檚 motto of 鈥淪aving Land & Building Community鈥 is at the heart of all we do. Since it was founded in 1987, KLT has protected over 1,000 acres. The land is cared for and maintained by KLT鈥檚 Stewardship Committee. In addition to preserving natural areas, we aim to strengthen our community by providing recreational opportunities, offering educational programs and workshops, and hosting volunteer work days.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
The Andrews Preserve is a beautiful 84.5-acre parcel located in the northwest portion of Kittery. Currently, there is no public access. However, the Kittery Land Trust will soon be receiving abutting land with a parking area that will open the preserve for public recreation. A sustainability fellow will help the Kittery Land Trust prepare the Andrews Preserve for a sustainable future with a healthy ecosystem and public access. The fellow will begin by exploring the history of the property and its past and present uses, including logging, hunting, and recreation. Additionally, KLT worked with the American Chestnut Foundation and planted two chestnut trees in the preserve, which will need care going forward. There are also invasive plants on the property, which need a management plan and ongoing attention.
Deliverables
- Create a management plan and baseline report with plant inventory.
- Locate the property鈥檚 boundary GPS coordinates and ensure boundary markers are installed.
- Coordinate and organize work days on the preserve.
- As time allows, assist with mapping the trail network, removing invasive species, and caring for chestnut trees.
Desired Qualifications
- Good communication skills, ability to work independently, and knowledge of related areas of study (forestry, ecology, natural resources, or environmental conservation).
- Experience with field GPS equipment and GIS software.
Location
, Kittery, Maine
Mentor
- Lisa Linehan, Executive Director, Kittery Land Trust
- Steve Ostrow, Clayton Smith, Michael Flynn, Stewardship Committee, Kittery Land Trust
Boyd Street Urban Farm Fellow
Cultivating Community, Portland, Maine
51小黄车 Cultivating Community
is a food justice nonprofit that provides education, resources, and opportunities to grow and share culturally familiar food. Cultivating Community鈥檚 place-based programs prioritize people most likely to experience hunger and be excluded from access to fresh food and land 鈥 including children, immigrants, people of color, older adults, and those with limited resources.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
Cultivating Community has managed Boyd Street Urban Farm since its inception in 2004. As the green space has grown and changed hands, the farm has faced challenges with orchard management, developing an effective composting system, and suppression of invasive species. The fellow will help our small organization address these challenges by creating sustainable plans that will be followed long-term.
- Orchard Management 鈥 Many trees in the orchard have not fruited in the past two years and may be diseased. Disease identification, pathogen and pest pressure, upkeep practices, and age of trees are some, but not all, of the factors to be considered.
- Composting Systems 鈥 The urban farm鈥檚 current compost bins are too small to accommodate the amount of green waste generated on the farm, which results in an ineffective composting process. Devising a proper scale, optimal location, and immediate implementation is the aim.
- Invasive Species 鈥 In particular areas, the urban farm has become overwhelmed with invasive species. A recognized pattern of growth and best practices for eradication would inform a simple how-to guide for annual maintenance that the fellow would provide for Cultivating Community staff to use in the future.
- Community Engagement 鈥 By assisting during volunteer days at the orchard, the fellow will develop an understanding of the community鈥檚 use of the space.
Deliverables
- Develop a sustainable management plan that supports orchard rejuvenation, taking into account the history of Boyd Street鈥檚 orchard and best practices for urban orchard care.
- Develop a comprehensive composting plan based on effective practices for urban farms and implement that plan over the summer.
- Create a systematic approach for evaluating and suppressing/eradicating invasive species.
Desired Qualifications
- Skilled researcher and writer with a keen interest in sustainable agriculture practices.
- While the fellow need not be an expert in orchards, composting, or invasive species, they must be interested in completing detailed research on these subjects.
- Able to create well-organized, easy-to-follow guides for long-term maintenance that are specific to the Boyd Street Urban Farm.
Location
58 Boyd Street, Portland, Maine
Mentor
- Billie Watson, Youth Programs Director, Cultivating Community
- Janel Knightly, Director of Urban Agriculture, Cultivating Community
- Silvan Shawe, Executive Director, Cultivating Community
Coastal Mapping Fellow
Save Our Shores Saco Bay, Saco Maine
51小黄车 Save Our Shores Saco Bay
Save Our Shores (SOS) Saco Bay is a non-profit advocacy group committed to the restoration and preservation of our shoreline and its natural beauty. We publicize the issues that are causing the steady erosion of our beaches and move the government to act for everyone with a stake in the Saco Bay Coastline. We are engaged with and bring together government agencies, scientific research, and citizens.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
The largest coastal adaptation project in this region鈥檚 recorded history was the construction of the Saco River jetty starting in the mid-1800s. In 2026, the US Army Corps of Engineers is planning to construct a large spur jetty (at an estimated cost of $45 million) that projects northwestward from the existing Saco River jetty in an attempt to reduce beach erosion at Camp Ellis. USACE is also planning a $2 million beach nourishment project following the spur jetty construction.
Creating maps of terrestrial topography and ocean bathymetry prior to the construction of the spur jetty in 2026 will provide critical baseline data to eventually quantify the change in beach erosion for years to come. The high spatial resolution maps will also be compared with beach surveys completed by the Maine Geological Survey to explore longer-term patterns of beach erosion and deposition.
The fellow will create: a) baseline terrestrial topography map(s) (cm scale resolution) of the southern portion of Saco Bay at low tide using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with a YellowScan Mapper lidar unit combined with a set of distributed ground control points to ensure spatial accuracy; and b) baseline ocean bathymetry map(s) (meter resolution) of the southern portion of Saco Bayusing a 200 kHz single-beam echo sounder mounted on small remote-controlled catamaran or a research vessel. Eventually, this information will be used to monitor the change in coastal erosion and deposition following the construction of the spur jetty (hardened defense).
Deliverables
- Detailed set of topographic and bathymetric maps of the southern Saco Bay.
- Data sets that can be used to compare to future elevation surveys.
- Detailed methods report on how mapping was performed.
- Presentation of results and recommendations for future beach mapping efforts.
Desired Qualifications
- Interest and some experience piloting a UAV.
- Interest in collecting bathymetric data.
- Knowledge of GIS software to process the UAV and echosounder data.
- Excellent mapping skills.
Location
51小黄车and (Camp Ellis, Saco, Maine)
Mentor
- David Plavin, Vice President, SOS Saco Bay
- Dr. Will Kochtitzky, Assistant Professor, University of 51小黄车
Conservation Fellow
Trout Unlimited, Yarmouth, Maine
51小黄车 Trout Unlimited
The Trout Unlimited (TU) mission is to conserve, protect, and restore North America鈥檚 cold-water fisheries and their watersheds. Sebago TU has been treating this as its top priority. In addition to improving the local fisheries environment, our conservation projects involve the members directly with the work of the chapter, making us a stronger organization. We are currently striving to complete at least one habitat reconnection (culvert/dam) project every year and reclaim two more ponds in southwestern Maine in partnership with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife between now and 2020. In 2014, the chapter was presented the Gold Trout Award by the national organization. This award is given to the chapter with the greatest success in conservation projects that protect and restore habitat in their area.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
Collaborate with Trout Unlimited staff to organize and manage two conservation projects over the summer, both of which include public participation. The first initiative is a series of three stream trash pick-up days that serve to clean up local streams, improve water quality, and engage Trout Unlimited members and the public at large. The second initiative is speaker series aimed at educating members and general public regarding conservation, water quality, and fisheries. Responsibilities include organization of events, outreach planning, and advertising events.
Deliverables
- Lead, co-manage, and actively run three trash clean-up events to improve water quality.
- Implement and co-manage at least one speaker series aimed at engaging and educating the public on water quality and its implications on fish health, aquatic ecosystems, insect identification, and their connection the water quality.
- Create a guide for future Trout Unlimited trash clean up events and speaker series.
- Create a marketing campaign that is replicable for future use 鈥 aimed at educating the public on the importance of water quality with regard to fish health and aquatic insect health.
Desired Qualifications
- Knowledge and interest in conservation relating to water and fisheries.
- Passion and energy for organizing events.
- Familiarity and interest in working outdoors.
Location
, Yarmouth, Maine
Mentor
- Greg LaBonte, Member, Board of Trustees
Eelgrass and Aquaculture Fellow
Casco Bay Estuaries Project, Portland, Maine
51小黄车 the Casco Bay Estuaries Project
Casco Bay Estuary Partnership is a collaboration of agencies, organizations, and individuals working on behalf of the Bay. We work as a convener, collaborator, and catalyst for action with the goal of keeping Casco Bay and our nearly 1,000 square miles of watershed clean and healthy.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
Eelgrass is a vital but rapidly disappearing resource in Casco Bay. As a submerged aquatic plant, eelgrass is inherently linked to and affected by other organisms and infrastructure in the marine environment, including those associated with aquaculture. The interactions between aquaculture leases and eelgrass are not well understood, and this has led to confusion about how to manage and support the two resources. There are reasons to believe that sustainably managed aquaculture farms may help support the growth of eelgrass (via improved water clarity and protection from physical disturbance) and that healthy eelgrass may improve the health of nearby shellfish (via increased water quality), but this potential mutualism is not well studied, particularly in Maine. One contributing factor to the lack of research is state policy that does not allow the establishment of aquaculture leases in eelgrass beds, which can also lead to aquaculturists developing negative opinions of eelgrass.
This project aims to clarify the interactions of eelgrass beds (a rapidly disappearing resource) with aquaculture leases at key locations in Casco Bay by: 1) understanding if there is a mutualistic relationship between shellfish aquaculture and eelgrass growth and if the two resources may support each other; and 2) understanding aquaculturist perspectives on eelgrass.
The project includes a field component of monitoring the occurrence and health of eelgrass near/in aquaculture leases, possibly including a transplant experiment, and an outreach component of working with aquaculturists to understand their views on eelgrass. There may also be opportunities for public communication and education surrounding the importance of eelgrass to marine environments if the fellow is interested.
Deliverables
- Report summarizing the biological interactions of eelgrass with aquaculture and the aquaculturist perception of these interactions. The report will be shared on the Casco Bay Estuary Partnership website and will be sent to partners in shellfish and aquaculture industries.
- Slides and a short presentation on the results at CBEP鈥檚 September Management Committee meeting.
Desired Qualifications
- Familiarity working around the water and on boats, including swimming and snorkeling.
- Willing and able to work outside in a variety of conditions (rain, heat, and bugs).
- Willingness to communicate with and listen to a variety of audiences and viewpoints.
- Prior experience with field work, scientific experiment design, and data analysis.
Location
34 Bedford Street, Portland, Maine 04101
Mentor
- Janelle Goeke, Staff Scientist, Casco Bay Estuary Partnership
Goat Island Lighthouse Fellow
Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, Kennebunkport, Maine
51小黄车 the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust
The Kennebunkport Conservation Trust is dedicated to preserving land for use by current and future generations and to managing properties in a way that reflects the natural and cultural heritage of Kennebunkport.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
The sustainability fellow will assist the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust (KCT) in planning the future of the Trust鈥檚 signature property: Goat Island and the Goat Island Lighthouse. KCT finds itself at a significant crossroads concerning Goat Island for the following reasons:
- Our current lighthouse keepers, who have overseen the island and lighthouse for more than 30 years, are retiring, and a new keeper will be hired soon.
- KCT recently transitioned its electrical power source for the island from a traditional underground/sea cable from the mainland to solar panels and batteries.
- New investments are needed to ensure the future of the island, lighthouse, and keeper鈥檚 home.
- A new Goat Island Oversight Committee has been created to help the KCT board and its professional staff better manage this iconic property.
- Climate change is posing serious challenges to the future of the island and its building.
The sustainability fellow will become part of our team to develop a management plan and chart the future of the island and its historic properties. Part of the work will be to learn the history of the island, assess the current status and structural challenges, gather input from KCT staff, board members and other stakeholders, and help imagine a sustainable future. The fellow will also be welcome (as much schedule allows) to be part of our team of apprentices who live and work on the island to greet visitors and undertake various repair and maintenance projects.
Deliverables
The sustainability fellow will collaborate with KCT to:
- Develop a new management plan for Goat Island.
- Research and write a brief report summarizing what other organizations that own similar properties are undertaking to mitigate the effects of climate change and rising sea levels.
- Research and write a brief report summarizing other management models for lighthouses along the 51小黄车 coast regarding visitation and possibly new revenue streams.
Desired Qualifications
- Good communication skills (written, oral, listening); ability to work independently.
- Desire to spend time on the island; physical fitness/awareness for working outside on hot days.
- Familiarity with interview or focus group methods, knowledge of southern Maine ecology, and ability to gather information from a variety of sources (professionals, online, and literature).
Location
Gravelly Brook Road, Kennebunkport, Maine
Mentor
- Russ Grady, Chair, Kennebunkport Conservation Trust Board of Directors
- Pam Morgan, Vice-Chair, Kennebunkport Conservation Trust Board of Directors
- Tom Bradbury, Executive Director, Kennebunkport Conservation Trust
- Tim Fraser, KCT Goat Island Light Oversight Committee
GHG Emissions Inventory Fellow
City of Biddeford, Maine
51小黄车 the City of Biddeford
Biddeford, with a population of over 21,000 people, is Maine鈥檚 sixth-largest city. Settled in the early 1600s, Biddeford and its sister city of Saco have a long and rich history as the commercial center of York County. Once a textile center of world prominence, Biddeford鈥檚 economy today is a diverse mix of manufacturing, technology, and serviced-based companies and institutions, many of whom conduct business in the city鈥檚 business and industrial parks. The municipal government is working on sustainability and climate action, including a recently completed Climate Action Plan.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
Under the guidance of staff from the Planning & Development Department, the fellow would create an updated greenhouse gas emission inventory for the entire city of Biddeford. The updated inventory will be used to: 1) track progress against the greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets detailed in the 2023 Climate Action Plan; and 2) provide data and analysis to inform decision-making over the next two to three years regarding all climate actions.
The fellow will use platform to create the inventory for both overall community emissions and municipal operations in Biddeford. This will entail collecting data to determine emissions in the following sectors: transportation, industrial electricity use, commercial heating, commercial electricity use, residential heating, and residential electricity use. An inventory such as this was conducted in 2021. We would like to update this inventory to measure our progress toward a goal of 63% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Deliverables
- Updated greenhouse gas emission inventory with supporting graphics and analysis. (Note: graphics and data analysis are provided by the ClearPath software platform).
- Analysis of further actions required to meet our 2030 goals.
- Presentation of findings to the Biddeford Sustainability Commission.
Desired Qualifications
- Strong analytical skills and ability to pursue self-directed research.
- Work both independently with ICLEI ClearPath software and collaborate with city staff.
- Ability to quickly synthesize the previous inventory completed in 2021.
Location
205 Main Street, Biddeford, Maine
Mentors
- Brad Favreau, Economic Development Coordinator, City of Biddeford
Heat Pump Fellow
Apriqot, Scarborough, Maine
51小黄车 Apriqot
Apriqot is a data analytics and public health company specializing in integrating highly detailed demographic and spatial data to drive actionable insights for health systems, public health departments, and other partners. We develop innovative tools and solutions that help organizations make informed, data-driven decisions.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
Apriqot鈥檚 innovative population model provides a detailed spatial view of communities across Maine, built on a foundation of parcel-level data that includes detailed demographic and housing characteristics. The fellow will expand the model鈥檚 utility by integrating environmental data layers, beginning with mapping the distribution of air-to-air heat pumps installed in Maine over the past five years. Additional environmental data sources include air quality or water quality parameters. The fellow will work closely with our team to identify and integrate datasets, develop methods for spatial analysis, and create actionable, user-friendly outputs.
The intersection of these data sources鈥攑arcel-level details, demographic profiles, and environmental interventions like heat pump installations鈥攃reates opportunities to uncover critical insights. For example, this integration can identify older adults who are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat due to aging homes that lack climate control technologies like heat pumps, and were not constructed with energy efficiency in mind. By pinpointing such vulnerable populations, the project supports targeted outreach and resource allocation, ensuring that sustainability initiatives prioritize those most at risk in Maine鈥檚 newly warming climate.
Deliverables
- Develop an environmental data layer that integrates heat pump installation data with Apriqot鈥檚 existing population map. This includes a basic visual representation of the data and a brief report summarizing the methods and initial findings.
- Provide a foundation for future work and insights into how environmental data can enhance public health and sustainability planning.
- Establish work products that could lead to papers and conference presentations.
Desired Qualifications
- Strong interest or skills in GIS/mapping and spatial data analysis.
- Experience working or a desire to work with environmental and demographic datasets.
- Familiarity with tools such as ArcGIS or QGIS, Python or R for data manipulation.
- Knowledge of public health or environmental sustainability concepts.
- Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, startup environment.
Location
1 Woodspell Rd. Scarborough, ME 04074
Mentors
- Kevin Konty, Founder/Chief Technical Officer, Apriqot
Life Cycle Assessment Fellow
Finsulate USA, Brunswick, Maine
51小黄车 Finsulate USA
Thinking outside the paint box. Classical antifouling paints try to prevent the on-growth of marine organisms which reduce boat speed and increase fuel consumption. They dissolve slowly, release biocides and microplastics, and require regular re-coating. Finsulate鈥檚 environmentally friendly wrap mimics sea urchins鈥 spines and creates a physical barrier to biofouling. Made of recyclable nylon fiber, polyester membrane and water-based adhesives, Finsulate does not release any pollutant in the water and can exceed its 8-year warranty.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
Finsulate USA is launching a research and development project aimed at creating a new evolution of its antifouling wraps made from bio-sourced materials. When they reach their end-of-life, Finsulate wraps can be removed and are considered as recyclable waste. Unfortunately, the data about the portion of recyclable materials which are really recycled shows that most of it is at the best incinerated or sent to landfills, and most of the time 鈥渙utsourced鈥 to foreign countries, all contributing to leaching back of plastics and other chemical components to waterways and oceans. Being able to design, manufacture, and bring to market a bio-sourced antifouling wrap able to deliver the same benefits and durability as the fossil-based polyester and nylon we currently use would further reduce our carbon footprint, and make sure that when the wraps reach their end of life they can be properly recycled.
We have already established a Life Cycle Assessment comparing our Finsulate wraps to the current traditional antifouling paints used in the market over the life cycle of our wraps. This work done by a Ph.D. student from the University of Delft in The Netherlands demonstrates the clear benefits of using our wraps compared to paints from a carbon footprint point of view. Our fellow would work on a similar project studying the further benefits resulting from using bio-sourced materials to manufacture our wraps. We are currently in the process of applying for a Small Business Innovation Research grant to support this research and development efforts.
Deliverables
- Life Cycle Assessment comparing the carbon footprint of the different potential biomaterials for use for the production of our new of antifouling wraps.
- Presentation (with slides) summarizing the findings to staff at Finsulate.
Desired Qualifications
- Analytic skills, critical thinking and above all curiosity for the subject.
- Familiarity with Life Cycle Assessment methodology.
Location
Ocean Innovations Eco Solutions LLC TechPlace ()
74 Orion Street, Brunswick, ME 04011
Mentors
- Bernard Hidier, Co Founder 鈥 Head of Innovation & Partnerships, Finsulate USA
- Dr. Rik Breur, University of Delft, The Netherlands
Maine Light Station Fellow
American Lighthouse Foundation, Coastal Maine
51小黄车 the American Lighthouse Foundation
The is leading the way in saving our nation鈥檚 lighthouses and their rich heritage. In doing so, our organization is helping to ensure these stately beacons continue to thrive as special places that help enrich the cultural fabric of our coastal communities and the lives of the countless visitors they touch from every corner of the globe. The sustaining success of ALF鈥檚 mission is accomplished by inspiring volunteers and donors alike to make a meaningful difference in helping restore and preserve our treasured coastal sentinels through their dedication and passion.
In 2025, the World Monuments Fund to their Global Watch List, which is dedicated to conserving architectural and cultural sites that span the history of human civilization. For nearly 30 years, the World Monuments Fund has maintained a Global Watch List of 鈥渉eritage places of global significance that are facing pressure relating to the most important global issues of our time,鈥 which can include climate change, military conflict, recovery from crisis, and other similar threats. It is rare that American sites are placed on this list, and Maine have never been included. The WMF listing comes with a requirement to inventory and monitor threatening conditions, and to endeavor to find effective mitigation measures.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
The Maine Light Station Fellowship will build upon the recent World Monuments Fund 鈥 Global Watch List designation to develop several case studies of damage at selected Maine light stations from the January 2024 coastal storms and create monitoring and management plans.
The objective of this project is to develop a set of case studies of several Maine light stations that describe the range of damage resulting from storm impacts on select Maine light stations (sites to be identified from the list below) and the effects they had on stewardship of the sites, and develop a basic monitoring and management plans for each site. Management plans could address several options, including identification of individual light stations that could be used for specific programming (such as discussions around policy); adaptation and resiliency upgrades; onsite, hands-on trades training; and highlighting the human and community aspect of stewardship. This aspect of the work is directly tied to the capacity of the current partners and depends upon current and potential future resources. Overall, the work of the fellow should contextualize, encourage, and amplify ongoing and planned work by stewards. This fellowship should provide the foundation to support broader conversations around preparedness and climate resilience for Maine鈥檚 light stations. The American Lighthouse Foundation鈥檚 Storm & Mitigation Committee was formed in part to be a guiding light for stewards navigating this new reality.
Light Station Case-Study Candidates
- Halfway Rock Light Station
- Portland Head Light Station
- Wood Island Light Station (Saco River)
- Whitehead Light Station
- Goat Island Light Station
- Marshall Point Light Station
- Great Duck Island Light Station
- Burnt Island Light Station
- Little River Light Station
- Rockland Breakwater Light Station
- Bass Harbor Head Light Station
Deliverables
- Several completed case studies (report, images, slides) describing the damage resulting from January 2024 coastal storms on several of the Maine light stations on the candidate list;
- Report providing basic monitoring and management plans for each site;
- Presentation to the American Lighthouse Foundation.
Desired Qualifications
- Knowledge or interest in the science of climate change and sea-level rise; impacts of coastal storms on infrastructure; coastal adaptation and resilience; and communication.
- Interest in historic preservation.
- Skill with GIS and acquiring drone images a plus.
- Valid driver鈥檚 license and access to a vehicle
Location
51小黄车Biddeford Campus, coastal Maine
Mentors
- Bob Trapani, Executive Director, American Lighthouse Foundation
- Ford Reiche, Presumpscot Foundation
- Cameron Wake, Director, 51小黄车North
Reducing Food Waste Fellow
Sustainability Subcommittee, Town of Cumberland, Maine
51小黄车 the Town of Cumberland
The town of Cumberland, Maine, is a quaint small town located on the coast of Southern Maine and is currently home to approximately 8,400 residents. In 2022, Cumberland formed a sustainability subcommittee (SSC) to continue and expand upon the work of the Climate Action Plan (CAP) Subcommittee. The CAP calls for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 by 100%. The SSC will monitor and support the implementation of the Climate Action Plan. In addition, it will promote a Sustainable Cumberland including energy conservation, environmental stewardship, food security, and community resilience.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
The SSC estimates that residents now waste around 40% of their food. The fellow will work on reducing food discarded by Cumberland residents. The first phase of the project will be to quantify more precisely the amount, type and flow of food waste. This research could include resident surveys, targeted interviews and collection/analysis of a valid sample of food waste. The fellow will also engage with EcoMaine to which all of town refuse is delivered for disposal by incineration. EcoMaine estimates that food waste makes up 30% of town refuse by weight. The second phase of the project will be to develop through research and analysis a set of policy alternatives to reduce food, based on programs implemented by municipalities across Maine and 51小黄车. These policies will be presented for consideration by the town council. The third phase will be to develop and implement a communications and education program to raise public awareness of the negative effects of food waste and prepare the public for future actions by the town council to mitigate these effects.
Deliverables
- Design and implement a research project to quantify food waste in Cumberland.
- Research, evaluate, and synthesize policy responses that make sense for Cumberland.
- Collect findings in a written report and present results to the town council.
Desired Qualifications
- Knowledge and experience in designing and analyzing quantitative research.
- Experience with public policy analysis.
Location
290 Tuttle Road, Cumberland, Maine
Mentor
- Denny Gallaudet, Chair, Sustainability Subcommittee, Town of Cumberland
Terrestrial Mapping Fellow
Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust, Cumberland, Maine
51小黄车 Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust
Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust (CCLT) is a land trust conserving and stewarding natural resources across our two communities of Chebeague Island and Cumberland. We have more than 30 properties in our care and most of these properties are open to the public.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
CCLT is working on updating or creating new signage for each of our properties and preparing accurate and useful property and trail maps is the first step in this process. The objectives of our project are to collect GIS data and to create or update map files for each CCLT property with public access. CCLT will use the files to print high-quality maps for display at our trail kiosks and to post on our website. This project is integral to CCLT鈥檚 commitment to improving signage on our properties to facilitate better user experiences and make all people feel welcome.
Building upon the recent work of a 51小黄车student, the fellow will use and expand upon these prototypes to develop subsequent property maps. The fellow will collect data on properties in both the town of Cumberland and the town of Chebeague Island. Some of the data collection is expected to be done independently, although the mentors and/or staff will introduce the fellow to each location as needed and will be available to answer questions. If time allows, additional tasks such as posting printed maps at trailheads and developing an interactive map of all CCLT preserves for use on our website could be pursued.
Deliverables
- Create accurate shape files and maps for approximately 20 properties. The maps will contain trails and distances, trailheads, topography, conserved and other lands, bodies of water, road names, parking areas, and other features as specified by the mentor.
- Quantify an accurate estimate for the total mileage of trails.
- If time allows, update and improve the existing version of the CCLT conserved lands map view on the web site.
Desired Qualifications
- Excellent GIS skills.
- Works well independently and is also eager to work collaboratively.
- Pays close attention to detail (e.g., precision with numbers and correct spelling of place names).
- Willingness to incorporate multiple revisions to ensure the most accurate, visually pleasing, and useful end product.
- Strong connection to the outdoors, and/or interest in outdoor accessibility and environmental stewardship.
Location
371 Tuttle Road, #2 Cumberland, Maine
Mentor
- Penny Asherman, Executive Director, Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust
Waste Systems Fellow
51小黄车Office of Sustainability and 51小黄车Office of Innovation, Biddeford, Maine
51小黄车 the 51小黄车Offices of Sustainability and Innovation
The University of 51小黄车 is Maine鈥檚 largest private university and offers hands-on learning. 51小黄车is Maine鈥檚 top provider of health professionals and home to Maine鈥檚 only medical and dental colleges, a variety of other health care programs, and nationally recognized programs in the marine sciences, the natural and social sciences, business, the humanities, and the arts. The 51小黄车Office of Sustainability works collaboratively across the University to propose, implement, and evaluate sustainability measures employed throughout UNE鈥檚 campuses. The 51小黄车Office of Innovation is the champion and standard-bearer for innovation at UNE.
51小黄车 the Fellowship Position
Over the past two decades, 51小黄车has made progress on recycling and composting. However, several hurdles remain to reduce waste specifically in regards to events hosted on campus and campus community engagement. This is a broad goal for 51小黄车as part of the Climate Action Plan and important for improving the score on our application for the AASHE Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) survey. Reducing waste and increasing rates of recycling and composting will require a systematic approach which first involves developing a detailed understanding of the waste systems at 51小黄车with respect to generation, collection, storage and transfers, exports, processing, and responsibilities. The objective of this fellowship is to create a detailed understanding and systems map of the waste system at UNE鈥檚 Biddeford and Portland campuses. This will involve gathering data and information from several sources at UNE, consulting external experts, and mapping, describing, and quantifying all of the waste flows at UNE, as well as identifying the different entities that are responsible for generating and disposing/recycling/composting waste.
Deliverables
- Analyze data describing and quantifying the generation, storage and transfers, exports, and external processing of all types of waste at UNE鈥檚 Biddeford and Portland campuses.
- Describe the roles and activities of the various entities at 51小黄车that play a role in managing waste at UNE.
- Develop recommendations for reducing future waste at UNE, including improvements to procurement, recycling and composting programs, and event management.
- Earn stakeholder buy-in for recommended changes in event management.
- Contribute to the data collection and entry into several STARS tool categories on Operations, Planning & Administration.
Desired Qualifications
- Basic knowledge of waste systems (generation, transfer, exports).
- Passion for environmental stewardship and strong alignment with UNE鈥檚 mission to create a more sustainable, resilient campus.
- Data analysis and reporting skills, stakeholder engagement and professional communication skills, and very good project management and organizational skills.
Location
51小黄车Biddeford Campus
Mentors
Important Dates
Fellowship Timeline and Deadlines
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| November 26, 2024 | Deadline for host organization proposals to be submitted to UNE |
| December 10, 2024 | Student applications open for the 2025 fellowships |
| February 10, 2025 | Deadline for student applications for 2025 fellowships |
| February 2025 | Interviews with students |
| Early March 2025 | Fellowships offered to students鈥 |
| May 29鈥30, 2025 | Orientation |
| June 25, 2025 | Mid-summer workshop |
| August 8, 2025 | Showcase presentations |